2025 Session Last amended: 2013 session

§ 168A.15 — Reconstructed, Scrapped, Dismantled, or Destroyed Vehicle

Plain-Language Summary

When a vehicle is significantly rebuilt from its original construction, it becomes a 'reconstructed vehicle' and the owner must apply for a new title that reflects this change. A dealer who buys a vehicle for scrap or dismantling must keep the title for three years before destroying it, and no new title can be issued for that vehicle. Motorcycles with replacement engines do not automatically get a 'reconstructed' stamp if the same rule does not apply to cars.

Practical Notes
Vehicle rebuilders who make major changes to a car’s structure must apply for a reconstructed vehicle title — the ‘reconstructed’ brand stays on the title permanently. This affects future resale value and insurability. Dealers who junk vehicles must hold onto the original title for three years as a record-keeping requirement, not simply discard it.